Resident Feedback

University Students & Working Professionals

M.S. (Faculty of Engineering, Shinshu University; Stayed: April 2021 – March 2022)
Why did you choose Yukiwari-sou?
It was the second cheapest property in Matsumoto (the cheapest one was already full).
What do you like about Yukiwari-sou?
No bond, key money, agent fee, guarantor company, renewal fee, or furniture/appliance costs. You can save ¥100,000–¥200,000 upfront. Incredibly cheap! And the people you meet here may genuinely change your life. I personally met people whose way of life truly inspired me.
About the landlord
Very kind. Living in a share house comes with occasional difficulties, but the landlord was always supportive and approachable.
A message to new students
Even if you’re moving to another city in your second year, why not spend a year here and gain some life experience? It’ll be worth it.

Y.T. (Working Professional; Stayed: September 2019 – March 2022)
Why did you choose Yukiwari-sou?
Initially, I considered it purely because of the affordable rent, but during the viewing I was impressed by the peaceful environment.
What do you like about Yukiwari-sou?
Bus stop nearby (3 buses/hour to Matsumoto Station), a supermarket within 5 minutes by bike, shared appliances provided so no need to buy anything new, friendly landlord, and you get to meet various people — even if only briefly. Surprisingly quiet for a share house. I’m truly glad I chose this place.
About the landlord
Very kind-hearted. The landlord regularly cleaned shared areas twice a week and always supported the residents.
A message to new students
Yukiwari-sou is located in a calm residential area, making it ideal for both living and studying. You can maintain your privacy or socialise — it’s entirely up to you.

A.O. (Faculty of Science, Shinshu University; Stayed: April 2018 – March 2020)
Why did you choose Yukiwari-sou?
My father recommended it.
What do you like about Yukiwari-sou?
(1) Extremely affordable rent.
(2) Very close to the university (10 minutes by bike).
(3) Well-equipped shared facilities (washing machine, shower, rice cooker, fridge, cleaning tools, dishes, TV, toaster, etc.)
(4) Opportunities to interact with diverse people — I became close friends with many other residents.
About the landlord
Exceptionally kind and respectful toward residents.
A message to new students
You’ll meet a wide range of people. That’s what I loved most about living here.

T.S. (Faculty of Education, Shinshu University; Stayed: April 2018 – March 2019)
Why did you choose Yukiwari-sou?
I was drawn to the idea of a share house with private rooms but shared dining space, where you can socialise freely.
What do you like about Yukiwari-sou?
Lots of international residents. We shopped together, chatted in the dining room, and even went cycling in the mountains. Experiences I wouldn’t have had elsewhere.
About the landlord
A motherly presence. She lives next door and was always quick to help. She cleaned shared areas twice a week, so they were always spotless.
A message to new students
If you’re anxious about living alone, and dorms feel too crowded — Yukiwari-sou is a perfect middle ground.

Y.T. (PhD Candidate; Stayed: December 2017 – March 2019)
Why did you choose Yukiwari-sou?
As a PhD student from an Australian university collaborating with a Shinshu University researcher, I needed short- or long-term accommodation. Yukiwari-sou was flexible.
What do you like about Yukiwari-sou?
It’s a share house where residents can enjoy interaction while keeping their privacy — quite rare in Matsumoto. I needed a quiet room for research, but when stuck, I could head to the dining area and chat with others, listen to music, or eat together.
We went cycling in the mountains, coded with computer enthusiasts, solved maths problems until dawn, and went on drives or shopping with working residents. These experiences would’ve been impossible in a dorm or solo apartment. I’m still in touch with many of them.
About the landlord
Few landlords are this thoughtful and attentive. They maintain the house regularly, respond promptly to issues, and often shared meals or gifts with us. She lives next door.
A message to new students
Yukiwari-sou offers a chance to break out of the ordinary student life and connect with people from all walks of life. Even with an age gap, I felt safe and welcome. Thank you for everything.

M.I. (Faculty of Science, Shinshu University; Stayed: April 2015 – March 2019)
Why did you choose Yukiwari-sou?
It was the cheapest place (including utilities) near Shinshu University — so I just went with it.
What do you like about Yukiwari-sou?
Unlike living alone, you can watch TV, cook, or do homework with others — yet still have your own private room. All essential appliances are provided, so no need to buy anything. I stayed for four years — it was that comfortable.
About the landlord
Very helpful and always supportive when needed.
A message to new students
If you’re looking for the most affordable rent in Matsumoto, this is the place.

T.N. (Faculty of Engineering, Shinshu University; Stayed: April 2017 – March 2018)
Why did you choose Yukiwari-sou?
I forgot to apply for the dorm, so I needed something cheap and furnished for just a year. I viewed six share houses from the uni’s rental guide — Yukiwari-sou stood out with its clear pricing, nice landlord, and well-maintained property.
What do you like about Yukiwari-sou?
Unlike the dorms, you have a private room. Still, the shared kitchen lets you meet others — I didn’t feel homesick. The interior was freshly renovated and included furniture and appliances, so I moved in with just a parcel delivery. Saved me a moving truck (normally ¥100,000).
About the landlord
The best part of Yukiwari-sou. The landlord was so kind. She cleaned, maintained the house, and even included sweets with rent receipts. In May, I got a rice cake! She even gave me a ride from the station when I moved in — incredibly helpful.
A message to new students
If it’s your first time living alone — don’t worry. You’ll have a kind landlord and dependable housemates. You’ll be fine. Enjoy your uni life.

Photos

Here are some snapshots from our annual welcome events at Yukiwari-sou.

2019 Welcome Gathering

A total of 8 residents joined Yukiwari-sou in 2019.

2025 Welcome Gathering

This year’s menu featured gourmet local fried chicken (Sanzoku-yaki) and boxed meals from “Katsugen,” a well-known tonkatsu shop in Matsumoto. We are committed to supporting each resident’s journey throughout the year.
In 2025, a total of 11 residents joined (5 new Shinshu Uni students, 3 current students, and 3 working professionals, including 2 Shinshu Uni graduates).